Earlier this year, two scientists—separated by entire continents—achieved what once belonged in the realm of science fiction: sending messages using brain signals alone.
More recently, researchers have taken another step towards a future where the mind and technology merge seamlessly.
Scientists at ETH Zurich in Switzerland have now developed a groundbreaking system that allows a person to control gene expression inside a living mouse—using only their thoughts.
How Brainwaves Control Genes
The new system relies on a wireless electroencephalography (EEG) headset that detects the brain activity of the user.
This information is then transmitted to an implant inside the mouse, equipped with a tiny red LED light and genetically engineered cells that react to this light.
By shifting their mental state between concentration and relaxation, the user can switch the LED on or off.
But why does this matter?
When activated, the light stimulates specific genes inside the engineered cells, triggering the production of proteins.
These proteins then enter the mouse’s bloodstream. Likewise, switching the light off halts protein production.
In essence, the wearer of the EEG headset has direct control over genetic activity inside a living organism—using only their thoughts.
Why Mind-Controlled Genes Matter
At first glance, it might seem like an overcomplicated way to activate genes. After all, wouldn’t simply pressing a button be more efficient?
Lead researcher Martin Fussenegger, a bioengineer at ETH Zurich, addresses this question head-on.
Speaking with the BBC, he explained the deeper purpose behind this technology: “We’ve designed it for potential application for locked-in patients who can no longer communicate with the outside world other than with their mental activities and brainwaves.”
For patients suffering from conditions like ALS or severe paralysis, this breakthrough could be life-changing.
The ability to control medication release or gene therapies simply by thinking could offer unprecedented autonomy to individuals trapped within unresponsive bodies.
From Mice to Humans
Fussenegger and his team believe that adapting this technology for human use might happen sooner than expected.
He envisions a future where the EEG headset and the LED implant could be combined into a single, minuscule device—one that could be implanted inside a patient and replaced every few months, much like an artificial pacemaker.
One of the most promising applications of this mind-controlled gene therapy? Treating epilepsy and chronic pain.
“We’re familiar with prosthetic devices, such as artificial hearts and replacement hips, but we’ve not transferred the concept to the molecular world,” Fussenegger told The Guardian.
“This is where I believe our mind-control device could set an example.
If I’m right, which is far from certain, this could change the treatment strategies of the future.”
A Paradigm Shift in Medicine?
If this technology proves effective in humans, it could revolutionize drug delivery systems.
Patients with chronic illnesses or neurodegenerative disorders could have customized treatment programs that activate only when their body needs it, reducing dependency on traditional drug regimens and their associated side effects.
The research team hopes to move to clinical trials within five years. While challenges remain—including miniaturization, safety concerns, and regulatory approvals—this breakthrough provides a glimpse into a future where medicine is controlled not by pills or injections, but by the power of thought.
The full research findings were published in Nature Communications.
Sources: BBC News, The Guardian
